Black Forest Cake

Authentic recipe for Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte):

Ingredients:

For the cake:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 cup granulated sugar

- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

- 1 teaspoon baking powder

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

- 4 large eggs

- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the whipped cream:

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cherry filling:

- 1 cup cherries, pitted

- 1/4 cup granulated sugar

- 2 tablespoons cornstarch

- 2 tablespoons Kirschwasser (cherry liqueur)

For the chocolate shavings:

- 1 cup dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 320°F (160°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.

2. Prepare the cake: Mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Add butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.

3. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.

4. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.

5. Prepare the whipped cream: Beat heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

6. Prepare the cherry filling: Mix cherries, granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Add Kirschwasser and mix well.

7. Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the cherry filling over the top. Top with the second cake layer.

8. Frost the cake with whipped cream and decorate with chocolate shavings.